Cool job: In flight with Republic Airways’ Amy Chiappe
The sky’s the limit for Republic Airways’ Director of Inflight Amy Chiappe.
Originally from Cleveland, Chiappe entered the airline industry after graduating from college in 1991, working as a flight attendant for five years before moving into management positions. She joined Indianapolis-based Republic Airways in 1998.
“I had always dreamed of traveling the world,” she remembers. “I’ve been able to travel to places I never thought possible — I’ve been on an African safari, bungee jumping in Norway, cooking lessons in Italy, sightseeing in Japan, backpacking in Europe and sunbathing in Rio! Travel has taught me not only about different countries, but also about different cultures, languages and life experiences.”
In her current role, Chiappe oversees the in-flight departments for Chautauqua, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America. When her feet are on the ground in Indy, she also stays busy working with charitable organizations and is helping coordinate the Pulling for Wishes Airplane Pull on Saturday to benefit the Indiana Children’s Wish Fund.
“Teams of 10 compete to pull a 35-ton aircraft at least 15 feet in the fastest amount of time,” Chiappe said. “Last year, we had 43 teams, 1,300 people in attendance and raised $251,000. This year, we’ve already raised over $300,000!”
Question: What kind of training did you need to become a flight attendant?
Answer: “I received 31/2 weeks of training, learning about safety, emergency procedures, first aid and customer service.”
Q: What makes your job cool?
A: “The people — I’ve met so many wonderful people here at Republic since I first started in this industry. Each day brings new challenges. I’m constantly learning new things and gaining more knowledge, even though I’ve already been in the industry for 24 years. I have a well-balanced mix of office time and travel.”
Q: What’s not cool about your job?
A: “The airline industry operation runs 24/7, so there are many long hours and days.”
Q: Favorite thing you’ve been able to achieve in your work so far?
A: “I’ve been able to combine my career, my love of the company and the people I work with, my love of children and my love of helping others by involvement in various charitable events like the plane pull.”
Q: What qualifications and prior experiences have helped you the most in your current role?
A: “Being a flight attendant for five years has helped me relate to and empathize with the 2,300 flight attendants I have the pleasure of working alongside. My college background helped me transition into various management roles.”
Q: What skills and characteristics are necessary to be successful as a flight attendant?
A: “The knowledge and training that a flight attendant receives are invaluable. The most important role of the FA is to ensure the safety of those onboard the aircraft. It’s so important for everyone to realize this. You must have the skills and knowledge required to complete the training, but also customer service talent and a love of people to succeed.”
Q: Does your job require any special training or continuing education?
A: “Every day is a learning experience due to unique circumstances that arise. I also attend many different industry seminars, trainings and meetings to continue to grow in my position. Republic provides continuing education in areas such as management techniques, leadership training and other subjects, which we are required to attend.”
Q: What advice would you give someone who wants to do what you do?
A: “Learn from your mistakes, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and keep an open mind regarding your future. When I was in college pursuing an entirely different career path, I never would have thought I’d be in the airline industry. Looking back, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I absolutely love what I do, and I’m very grateful for what I have.”
More about Amy Chiappe
Job title: Director of Inflight, Republic Airways.
Age: 46.
Education: Bachelor’s degree from Miami University, Ohio.
Favorite musicians: Coldplay.
Favorite quote: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” — Henry Ford